Debit Card and ATM Security

Lost or Stolen Card

If you do not know your card number, stay on the line and a card specialist will assist you

How to use your Debit Card Securely

Sign your card

Sign the back of your card upon receipt. Your card signature should match the signature on your receipt.

Protect your card and your PIN

Do not write your Personal Identification Number (PIN) where it can be discovered. For example, do not keep a note of your PIN in your wallet or purse. Do not choose a PIN code that can be easily discovered, such as a code associated with your date of birth, social security, or your address. Choose a code that is unique and does not match any personal data in your wallet.

Do not lend your card to anyone or tell anyone your card number or PIN code. Remember that your debit card is tied directly to your account. Protect it as you do your cash. When using your card at merchant locations, keep your card within sight. Always obtain merchant receipts, and destroy only after the transaction has correctly posted your account.

Helpful hint

Make a list of the cards in your wallet to securely stash at home. Also keep a list of the bank phone numbers handy. If your card is lost or stolen, it can quickly be blocked with a prompt call to the bank.

Watch your surroundings

Choose an ATM that feels safe, even if it means driving out of your way. If a cash terminal is poorly lit, or in a hidden area, use another ATM. If you see strangers loitering around or parked nearby, use another ATM. If you are in an unfamiliar area, use an ATM inside a grocery store. Grocery store terminals are usually safer due to higher visibility and foot traffic.

When using your card at an ATM or merchant terminal, prevent others from seeing the PIN you enter by using your body to shield their view. If there is a line waiting behind you, ask the person to step back out of sight from your personal business.

At a drive-up facility, make sure all the car doors are locked and all of the windows are rolled up, except the driver's window. Keep the engine running and remain alert to who is around you.

Be Quick and Prepared

Avoid “flashing the cash” at an ATM. Pocket it as soon as the transaction is completed and count the cash later when you are in the safety of your own car, home, or other secure surrounding.

Prepare for your transactions at home (for instance, by filling out a deposit slip) to minimize your time at the ATM or night deposit facility. It is also a good idea to keep record of each transaction you make with your card.

Fraud Protection

Independent Bank is keeping busy; making sure your debit card is safe and secure. If you card has been stolen, do not panic, and notify us immediately. We can block the card and halt the thief in his tracks. If there are fraudulent transactions, these can be disputed after the dust settles. All of the debit cards we issue are protected by our Fraud Prevention Service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Trained analysts watch for suspicious transaction activity on your behalf, and will contact you immediately to verify the authenticity of your card transactions. So if you ever get a call from our Fraud Prevention Service, know that our people are doing their job and preventing potential misuse of your card.

If your card is simply missing, let us know as quickly as possible. We will block your card to prevent any misuse, just in case. And if you later find it in your couch cushions, we can reactivate the card.